Life Journey TV
Kelly Shann
Subscribe
Life Journey TV is a podcast that helps people find inspiration, motivation and courage in their lives through listening to the lived experiences of others. Kelly interviews inspirational Australian's who generously share their truth and honesty in order to help others find their happiness.
Available episodes
Newest first
Oldest first
May 6, 2022
Wallace Gunthorpe - Cows for Cambodia
When Queensland grazier Wallace Gunthorpe worked through a succession plan with his family, he found himself at a loose end.
Rather than slip into retirement life spending his days playing golf, a trip to Vietnam led him into Cambodia where he heard about this Aussie bloke who was helping the Cambodian people through a ‘cow bank’.
On his return to Australia, Wallace contacted that bloke - Cosi Costello, with an offer to help him with Cows for Cambodia and the rest as they say, is history.
Wallace has become an integral part of Cows for Cambodia and I recently caught up with him to find out the part he plays in this amazing charity.
Many thanks to Kennedy Livestock for their support in bringing you this interview.
playlist_add
May 2, 2022
Cosi Costello - Cows for Cambodia
When Cosi Costello first visited Cambodia with a mate seven years ago, he fell in love with the Cambodian people.
From that initial visit, Cosi began Cows for Cambodia, a ‘cow bank’, to support families and help them break the poverty cycle.
Cosi has done so much for the people of Cambodia and has watched his charity go from strength to strength, now having branched into Botswana.
To support Cows for Cambodia, head to Cosi’s facebook page or www.cowsforcambodia.com
Many thanks to Kennedy Livestock for bringing this interview to you.
playlist_add
Apr 24, 2022
Anzac Day 2022 - Sergeant Tim Hibberd
This year for Anzac Day, I invite you to watch my interview from last year with Sergeant Tim Hibberd.
Sergeant Hibberd shared with me, stories of his time in Afghanistan and what Anzac Day means to those who have returned from service.
Lest we forget.
playlist_add
Apr 9, 2022
Graeme Acton
*"He was solution driven. The problem was just a small part of the equation", Tory Acton.*
Graeme Acton was a monumental man. He was a force to be reckoned with and one of the most influential figures in the cattle industry of our time.
He had the ears of policymakers and great hope for the future of the beef industry.
I remember when we heard the news that Graeme had been seriously injured in a campdrafting accident.
The magnitude of his passing sent a tsunami of disbelief and sorrow which spread from the halls of Parliament House to the dustiest of paddocks in remote Australia - the part he loved the best.
Graeme's business life and accolades have been well-documented but what was he like as a person and what did he most value throughout his life?
Join me, in this very special interview, as I hear from Graeme's family who share with me the story of a husband and father.
Many thanks to Stabler and Howlett Veterinary Surgeons for bringing this interview to you.
playlist_add
Mar 31, 2022
Kay Paton Bronzes
From dabbling in a little bit of art at school to becoming one of Australia's foremost bronze sculptors, Kay Paton's journey has not been easy.
Kay is proof that if you stick with something even when the going gets tough, you will succeed.
A strong mentor who has an unwavering belief in you doesn't go astray either!
Join me as Kay shares her story of becoming a master in her craft.
playlist_add
Mar 4, 2022
Lynda MacCallum - a Champion living with MS
'An impressive human being', 'an incredibly positive, loving vibe' - these are just some of the words others use to describe my guest this week.
Lynda McCallum's brave story has touched many who know her and I am humbled she has allowed me to share her journey here.
Following her diagnosis of multiple sclerosis and with the understanding and support of her husband Jim, Lynda competed in the 2018 NCHA Cutting Futurity placing second in Australia's largest Cutting event (for those of you who don't know about cutting horses, it's a pretty big deal!).
In our interview, we chat about the tools she used to put herself in that winning mindset when everything seemed to be against her. Her tenacity and motivation can be applied to anyone wanting to excel in whatever endeavor they set their mind to.
Then we delve into what its like living with MS, her fears and let-downs along with some remarkable coincidences and her hopes for the future.
playlist_add
Feb 18, 2022
Adventures in Namibia - Phoebe Penny
Join me to hear my chat with Phoebe Penny about her amazing Namibia adventures!
I first met Phoebe when she came to us on work experience from Emerald Pastoral College (when it existed) about 12 years ago.
Her infectious nature, adventurous spirit and happy attitude was a hint of things to come for Phoebe and I wasn't surprised when she set off for the wilds of Namibia to join the Namibia Horse Safari Company.
I have loved following Phoebe's adventures on Facebook and equally, hearing first hand from her about her African experience and I hope you will too!
playlist_add
Jan 26, 2022
Marion Blumenthal Lazan - Four Perfect Pebbles
In her unforgettable memoir, Four Perfect Pebbles, Marion Blumenthal Lazan recalls the horror of the holocaust through her nine-year-old eyes when she and her family were sent to a concentration camp.
It is her mission, that in teaching the lessons of the past, future generations may look forward to peace and understanding in the world.
Her story portrays the resilience of the human spirit, and her experience is proof that we can endure far more than we think we are capable of.
Marion has lived a life full of great love, and it is her greatest wish that we all learn to live with respect, understanding and tolerance of our fellow humans.
playlist_add
Jan 13, 2022
Sarah Hayles
Sarah Hayles grew up on a Central Qld cattle property.
After finishing school Sarah found herself working in the mining industry and while there, studied Engineering, proving that once you set your mind to something, everything is possible.
11 years ago however, Sarah began having a problem with one of her eyes and to this day, doctors are still unable to tell her what is wrong.
Sarah shares her courageous story with me - the doubts she has had in her life, her journey into motherhood and tells me about her very successful on-line business and podcast.
playlist_add
Nov 12, 2021
Movember 2021 - Dr Sanjeev Bandi
Its hard to believe a whole year has passed since Movember 2020 when I first chatted with Dr Sanjeev Bandi and that we are again seeing moustaches on men everywhere.
I thought it timely to chat with Dr Bandi again who is somewhat of a celebrity within Movember circles.
Since 2008, Dr Bandi has individually raised close to $500,000 to support men’s health throughout Australia. His fundraising efforts continue this year along with his team the ‘MOV-ing Mackay Cricket Club’.
Movember supports men’s mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer globally.
playlist_add
Oct 28, 2021
Steve Waugh - The Steve Waugh Foundation
One of the beneficiaries of Zara’s Day is the Steve Waugh Foundation.
Whilst little Zara wasn’t here for long enough to access the wonderful support from the organisation, her family wanted to ensure others living with Rare Syndromes were able to access the amazing community that is the Steve Waugh Foundation.
I caught up with Steve to find out what the generosity of the Boshammer family means to so many families, and to him personally.
For all the cricket fans I did manage one cricket question!
playlist_add
Oct 22, 2021
Zara's Day
In this very special interview, Kate Boshammer shares her family’s story and the journey they have travelled with their baby girl, Zara.
Zara was born with a rare chromosomal condition called Pallister Killian Syndrome and at almost seven months, she passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family.
“Our beautiful baby Zara was with us for nearly seven months, and we hold a deep gratitude for the blessings she brought to our lives,” says Kate.
Kate’s courage, love and resilience will astonish you as she shares with me the precious time Justin, Kate and Theo spent with Zara.
Following her passing, Justin and Kate organised ‘Zara’s Day’. They raised an incredible $150,000 for the Royal Flying Doctor Service in Queensland and the Steve Waugh Foundation (SWF supports children and young people living with rare conditions). They also funded two high-flow oxygen facilities for their local hospital.
This year, the family have chosen to once again host Zara’s Day and…
playlist_add
Sep 16, 2021
Edwina Robertson
Edwina Robertson is most well known as the Queen of the Dust through her successful photography business, but as I found out when I recently caught up with her, Edwina is one person with a lot going on!
From her ‘accidental’ rise to photographer fame, to her recent expedition climbing Mt Kosciusko in her swimmers (yes you did read that correctly…..and it was winter), Edwina is as inspiring as she is brave.
I really enjoyed my chat with Edwina and I hope you do too!
playlist_add
Jul 4, 2021
Jess Gimm - Manged Mayhem
Marie Kondo, the Japanese organising consultant, has sparked a wave of declutterers, willing to come into your home and help you reorganise your belongings.
They say the benefits of having a good clean-up and clean-out, can reduce stress and anxiety while at the same time boosting your energy, creativity and efficiency.
For Jess Gimm, this has been a huge step in helping her regain control in her life and overcoming her own mental health problems.
Jess now helps others do the same thing through her business 'Managed Mayhem'. She loves nothing more than helping her clients find a sense of achievement when their home and office is uncluttered and organised.
Jess explains that having someone else there can help take the emotion out of keeping certain belongings that may have served their purpose and leaves you with practical tools to ensure a long and happy organised life!
playlist_add
Jun 18, 2021
Girls Trips
Each year, four of my special friends and I take some time to go away on what has become our annual ‘girls trip’.
We have been to some wonderful places, had some amazing experiences and most importantly, spent a whole lot of time laughing. For me, there’s nothing like getting together with these women.
This year, one of the girls decided we needed to find out what was in our own backyard and organised a weekend in our local town of Clermont.
It was wonderful!
From dining at some of the great restaurants and cafes in town to exploring our local museum and lagoon, we topped the weekend off with a hike to the top of one of the local peaks.
If you haven’t already, I highly recommend looking at what your local region has to offer. You might just be incredibly surprised.
Many thanks to Isaac Regional Council and the Qld Government for bringing this interview to you.
playlist_add
Jun 5, 2021
Josie Angus - Signature Beef
Josie Angus and her husband Blair are trailblazing a new era in beef production in Australia.
The couple’s on-property abattoir is nearing completion - a massive project which is set to redefine their business.
Josie very generously shared some time with me recently and we chatted about everything from her childhood to how she handles the stresses in her life. There are also some funny stories along the way!
I hope you enjoy hearing Josie’s tale as much as I did.
Many thanks to Isaac Regional Council and the Qld Government for their help in bringing this interview to you.
playlist_add
May 12, 2021
Do It For Dolly Day 2021 - Kate Everett
Following the tragic loss of their little girl Dolly in 2018, the Everett family were quick to launch a platform to help change the bullying culture in communities.
Dolly's Dream has gone from strength to strength and has quickly grown to become one of Australia's most recognised charities.
From developing their 'DigiPledge' to the new support-line , Dolly's Dream aims to provide practical tools to help those who are being bullied, those who are doing the bullying and family and loved ones who wish to help.
Through Tick, Kate and Meg's grief, they have created a lasting legacy to honour Dolly and to help prevent the same thing happening to another family.
For further information, head to www.dollysdream.org.au
Many thanks to Isaac Regional Council and the Queensland Government for their support in bringing you this interview.
playlist_add
May 7, 2021
Foster Care Mum - Debra Lamont
To celebrate Mother's Day 2021, I wanted to bring to you, a story about an incredibly special Mum.
Debra Lamont was her region’s, Inspiring Woman of the Year in 2020 and is a woman with a huge heart and much love to give.
Debra and her family have helped more than 40 children find stability in their lives and have given these kids a home filled with love and kindness through their involvement with Anglicare Foster Care Services.
Debra confesses it hasn't always been easy but takes pride in the difference she has made to each and every child who has found a place in her home and heart.
I hope you enjoy hearing Debra's story as much as I did!
Many thanks to Isaac Regional Council and the Queensland Government for bringing you this story.
playlist_add
May 2, 2021
The Right Mind - Jill Rigney
To coincide with this year's Beef Australia in Rockhampton, I thought it timely to chat with Jill Rigney from the Right Mind.
Jill shares with me her expertise in ensuring a legacy for future generations through careful financial planning, open communication and understanding each individual's needs.
We also speak about how taking care of our finances can help our mental health.
I hope you enjoy hearing from Jill.
Many thanks to the ANZ Bank for bringing this interview to you.
playlist_add
Apr 22, 2021
Sergeant Tim Hibberd
This year, to commemorate Anzac Day, Sergeant Tim Hibberd joins me to give some insight into his experience whilst serving in Afghanistan.
He also shares what Anzac Day means to him as a returned soldier in the 21st Century and gives a prodigious account of the significance of the Last Post.
Sergeant Hibberd served as an Aircraft Maintenance Manager, UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Mission Commander, and UAS/Tiger Maintenance Training Course Manager during his time in Afghanistan.
His story is more poignant given the recent announcement of the withdrawal of troops in Afghanistan. Hearing his account has given me a great deal of understanding and context around how an entire generation of the ADF would be feeling about the withdrawal.
I hope you enjoy the telling of Tim's story.
Lest We Forget.
Many thanks to Isaac Regional Council and the Qld Government for their support in bringing this interview to you.
playlist_add
Apr 17, 2021
Frith Graham - Girls Trek
My recent six-day hike across the Overland Track in Tasmania, opened up a whole new world for me, allowing me to experience many new challenges -
things I had never thought of doing before.
From climbing mountains to swimming in ice cold water, I absolutely fell in love with the whole adventure.
Whilst I don't have Girls Trek to thank for my first hiking experience (that accolade goes to Tasmanian Hikes), Frith Graham is the consummate professional, arranging unforgettable and unique hiking experiences for the perfect girl's getaway.
Their trips are challenging in parts but also rewarding and a lot of fun. Their aim is to provide happy memories to last a lifetime.
I know you'll be pulling on your hiking boots and strapping on your backpack after hearing from Frith!
Sincere thanks to Isaac Regional Council and the Queensland Government for bringing this interview to you.
playlist_add
Apr 17, 2021
Frith Graham - Girls Trek
My recent six-day hike across the Overland Track in Tasmania, opened up a whole new world for me, allowing me to experience many new challenges -
things I had never thought of doing before.
From climbing mountains to swimming in ice cold water, I absolutely fell in love with the whole adventure.
Whilst I don't have Girls Trek to thank for my first hiking experience (that accolade goes to Tasmanian Hikes), Frith Graham is the consummate professional, arranging unforgettable and unique hiking experiences for the perfect girl's getaway.
Their trips are challenging in parts but also rewarding and a lot of fun. Their aim is to provide happy memories to last a lifetime.
I know you'll be pulling on your hiking boots and strapping on your backpack after hearing from Frith!
Sincere thanks to Isaac Regional Council and the Queensland Government for bringing this interview to you.
playlist_add
Apr 4, 2021
Marie Muffett - A COVID Story
When Marie Muffett took a well earned holiday with her daughter, she wasn't expecting their trip to turn her world upside down.
Marie was one of 2,700 passengers on-board the Ruby Princess, when it set sail for New Zealand in February last year.
Unfortunately, she was also one of more than 700 people on board that ship to contract COVID.
Marie shares her experience with me and has a dire warning to others to take COVID very seriously.
playlist_add
Mar 19, 2021
Tracey Litfin
By the time Tracey Litfin was 21, she had graduated from study with first class honours, was newly married and within a few months of her wedding, had fallen pregnant with her first child.
Life was wonderful and exciting.
Sadly, that all changed on the 4th of September, 2002 when Tracey had a fall from her horse and was left in a coma with little chance of recovery.
But recover she did.
Tracey has written her courageous story, 'If You Fall' and recently sat down with me to share her experience.
Thank you to Isaac Regional Council and the Queensland Government for bringing this interview to you.
playlist_add
Mar 5, 2021
Heidi Smith
As part of International Women's Day, I wanted to bring to you someone who epitomises what I believe being a woman is all about.
Heidi Smith may look like a cowgirl, and she is, but she is also much more.
Heidi has had her fair share of challenges which she handles with grace, courage, love and hope. She doesn't make excuses for herself and is comfortable in her vulnerability.
She is an incredibly strong person in so many ways but also has an inherent softness and kindness.
Heidi speaks about endorphins, getting out of bed when you don't feel like it and putting one foot in front of the other.
From the Kokoda Trail to Everest Base Camp and everything in between, this is Heidi's story.
playlist_add
Jan 27, 2021
Betty Eadie - Embraced by the Light
What happens when we die?
Why are we faced with so many challenges and what is our purpose here on earth?
Betty Eadie answers these questions and so many more in her beautiful book, 'Embraced by the Light'.
In the book, Betty documents her incredible experience of passing away and returning to fulfil her life's purpose.
'Embraced by the Light' has had a profound effect on my own life since I read it in the early nineties. I would never have guessed in a 'zillion' years I would ever have the opportunity to speak with Betty and am eternally grateful for her graciousness and generosity in doing so.
If you only ever listen to one of my interviews ever, let it be this one.
playlist_add
Nov 27, 2020
Movember 2020 - Dr Sanjeev Bandi
Mackay urologist, Dr Sanjeev Bandi, is a powerhouse within the ranks of Mo Bro’s worldwide.
He has been the leading individual fundraiser in Australia for a number of consecutive years and has raised $435,514 since 2008.
His club, the Mo~ving Mackay Cricket Club has raised $598,529 since 2011.
Dr Bandi believes we all need to work together to improve men’s health and well-being and is particularly passionate about youth suicide.
He is passionate, mo~tivated (sorry!) and very funny.
playlist_add
Nov 14, 2020
Warwick Schiller
Warwick Schiller is a world-renowned Australian horseman, who is as passionate about mental health as he is about horses.
Warwick very graciously gave me his time recently, to share his insights from a male perspective on challenges, attitude and mental health.
As part of ‘Movember’ in Australia, I’m very grateful to Warwick for sharing his experiences with me this month.
With 20 million views on his YouTube channel, he is certainly someone well worth listening to!
playlist_add
Oct 30, 2020
McGrath Foundation - Tracy Bevan
Tracy Bevan’s name is synonymous with the McGrath Foundation.
As a foundation ambassador and director, Jane McGrath’s best friend has diligently carried out the plan they hatched together to ensure every Australian suffering breast cancer, has access to a McGrath breast care nurse.
With 151 McGrath nurses throughout Australia, there is still a way to go, but with the passion and dedication of Tracy and the McGrath Foundation team, I have no doubt their dreams will be realised.
I feel sure I speak for every Australian when I say how grateful I am these two English women found their way to our shores and have proudly called Australia home.
We have much to thank Jane, Tracy and their families for. I think Jane would be very proud of them all.
Many thanks to Suncorp for helping bring this interview to you and for their support to Life Journey during Breast Cancer Awareness month.
playlist_add
Oct 26, 2020
Maree Balmain
During Breast Cancer Awareness month, I thought it timely to catch up once again with Maree Balmain.
If you missed our first interview, Maree went from the labour ward to the oncology ward soon after giving birth to second child Harry.
The past 12 months have been huge for the Balmain family.
Between Maree’s treatment, the family have moved from Julia Creek in North West Qld to the Northern Territory where they manage up to 18,000 head of cattle.
During our interview, Maree shares that she has achieved PCR (pathologic complete response) which means ‘the absence of invasive cancer in the breast or lymph nodes following chemotherapy". In layman's terms, it means Maree is now cancer free!
Maree continues targeted treatment as a follow up and is finally able to speak about her long term hopes and dreams.
While continuing to place huge importance on raising awareness around breast cancer, Maree is passionate about reminding women to regularly check their breasts and keep their mam…
playlist_add
Oct 18, 2020
Sally Towne
In this episode, Sally Towne bravely shares her journey with IVF and breast cancer.
Sally, originally from Sydney, has spent her entire adult life in remote Australia and wouldn't have it any other way.
October, being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, gives us an opportunity to highlight the impact breast cancer has on those affected and their families.
Sal has a strong message and it includes:
- early detection is the key to survival.
- act on your intuition.
- if something doesn't feel right - don't take no for an answer.
- have regular check-ups.
- give yourself weekly breast examinations.
- check your insurance policies are up to date and include Trauma insurance.
playlist_add
Oct 2, 2020
Are You Bogged Mate? - Mary O'Brien
As the founder of ‘Are You Bogged Mate?’, Mary O’Brien is a passionate advocate for men’s mental health.
Are You Bogged Mate?, aims to boost awareness and start a conversation with the broader community about the rising issue of depression and suicide rates among men in rural areas.
Through Mary’s advocacy, she is making it more acceptable for country men to talk about their challenges and most importantly to seek help when they need it.
I learnt so much chatting to Mary. As a woman with some much-loved men in my life, I am very grateful to her for lighting the way.
Watch on YouTube or listen here!
playlist_add
Sep 18, 2020
Clarity Road - Julie Rainbow
Julie Rainbow had everything she had always wanted.
A loving marriage, 2 gorgeous kids, a beautiful home, and an award-winning business.
Sadly though, Julie was to find out the hard way, what she thought of as a loving marriage, was built on lies and deceit.
Julie lost everything, but rather than dwell on her misfortune, she focused on what she loved most in this world, her kids.
Julie turned her life around and along the way created Clarity Road, a platform assisting women to move through adverse life-changing events such as divorce, bankruptcy, and job loss.
I hope you find empowerment and inspiration in Julie’s words.
playlist_add
Sep 4, 2020
Anna Daniels
Anna Daniels is a journalist, author and broadcaster from Rockhampton in Central Queensland.
Anna famously botched an interview with Russel Crowe when she was fresh from Uni. True to Anna’s style and philosophy, she didn’t let it get her down, turning the disaster into a triumph when she won the ABC’s Comedy Segment of the Year.
Anna has also written a best-selling novel, Girl In Between which was shortlisted for the Vogel Award.
playlist_add
Aug 20, 2020
Libby Moore - International Speaker and former Chief of Staff to Oprah Winfrey
Today's interview is one which I have been looking forward to since hearing Libby Moore speak last year and making an arrangement with her to 'catch up soon!' Well finally, and thank you to the Zoom platform, we caught up firstly last month, and again more recently to record this interview.
Libby certainly has an incredible story.
As a young person, Libby moved from her home state of Maryland to New York. Through a mutual friend's mother, Libby found herself working as assistant to television host Maury Povich.
During this time, Libby was encouraged to live her life with authenticity.
Libby eventually went on to become Oprah Winfrey's Chief of Staff, a position she held for 11 years.
Libby shares so much with me during our interview. Her truth and honesty is remarkable and has certainly taught me we must own our truths no matter how difficult they may be to admit to. As Libby says, 'GOD lives inside of TRUTH'.
I hope you enjoy hearing Libby as much as I did.
playlist_add
Aug 12, 2020
Will Wright- Childhood Leukemia- Relapses- 84 Surgeries
Will Wright was just 3 years old when he was diagnosed with leukemia. By the time Will was 5, he had spent 3 Christmas' and 3 birthdays in hospital.
In spite of this, with 4 relapses and 84 surgeries behind him, Will remains optimistic and excited about his future.
In Year 12, Will's class was asked to write an essay on how their lives had been affected by movies they had watched.
Will wrote 'Hakuna Matata'.
Will's Dad tells me how much this essay means to all who read it when they have the understanding of Will's history, treatments and surgeries. I know it certainly has touched me.
In his story, Will describes the profoundness he sees in the movie 'The Lion King' and how if we all worried less, loved and enjoyed our lives more, the world would be a far happier place.
Thank you Will for allowing me to reprint 'Hakuna Matata' and for taking the time to share your story.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish you a very happy 21st birthday today. Congratulations on making…
playlist_add
Jul 29, 2020
Juliette Wright- GIVIT- Donating in Australia
From a simple gesture of kindness, Juliette Wright began her charity GIVIT in 2009 and since then has donated over 2 million items to those in need.
GIVIT's unique concept quickly captured the attention of the Government. When Queensland flooded in 2011, Premier Anna Bligh turned to Juliette for help. Givit became the state government's official website for managing donations during disasters. They are now recognised as the National Disaster and Emergency Partner.
During the devastating bushfires earlier in the year, the Duchess of Cornwall reached out to the GIVIT team to make a donation. Camilla is now Patron of the Charity, something Juliette is justly proud of!
playlist_add
Jul 24, 2020
Ben Dobbin- "Dobbo"
This week's podcast is an oldie, but a goodie. I sit down and interview Ben Dobbin, Dobbo (as everyone knows him). Ben has led such an interesting life. From growing up in the middle of Sydney, to working in the Northern Territory on a remote cattle property, he is now a well known media personality.
Dobbo even shares a bit of life advice with me.
I hope you enjoy this interview.
playlist_add
Jul 19, 2020
Jules Galloway- A Story Of Adoption, Abuse & Public Housing to a now Byron Bay Naturopath
Jules Galloway had a troubled childhood.
Her adopted parents kept her locked away in their home, only allowing her to go to school with all hell breaking loose if she was just minutes late home in the afternoon.
By the time Jules was 16, being homeless seemed a better option than staying where she was.
Despite everything, Jules has managed to put her dreadful childhood behind her to become a compassionate and successful person.
Jules helps her clients live healthy lives and even lends her time to the organisation, Involvement Volunteers International, helping bring better health to underprivileged countries.
I hope you enjoy Jules story as much as I did!
playlist_add
Jul 8, 2020
Steven Bradbury- The Last Man Standing!
I was fortunate enough to catch up with the incredible Steven Bradbury last year.
To take his gold medal victory in Salt Lake City in 2002 at face value, would be to seriously underrate the enormous effort he put into his career in the years leading up to that spectacular moment.
playlist_add
Jul 3, 2020
Julie Cross- Hope & Empowerment
Julie Cross is a passionate speaker and brings a strong message of hope and empowerment to all who hear her speak.
Julie's own life hasn't been easy. She lost her husband when their two boys were little and their youngest child has lived his 19 years with autism.
Julie fills her life with so much positivity and humour, its difficult not to feel happier in her company.
I hope you enjoy our interview!
playlist_add
Jun 27, 2020
Kyle Andrews- Coming Out In A Country Town
The battle began every morning for Kyle Andrews when he climbed out of bed.
Kyle always knew he was gay, but it wasn’t until he was 13 and his parents found out, that things became really difficult for him.
Thrown out of home and ostracised by his peers, things couldn’t have been worse for a young gay person growing up in a small rural community.
Somehow though, Kyle found the courage to stand up and be true to himself. He did so with humility, kindness, and hope.
I have met Kyle several times now and I thoroughly enjoy his company. He is witty, sometimes vulnerable but filled with love and hope. He is grateful, considerate and lives his life with a deep sense of integrity.
He is one of the bravest young people I know.
playlist_add
Jun 13, 2020
Col Mackereth- Defying the Odds
"It's hard to imagine how you would react if you were tragically struck down in your youth. Why would you? It's not like that is ever going to happen."
So reads the first paragraph in Col Mackereth's memoir, Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow. A book I had difficulty putting down.
Col's story is one of overcoming unimaginable odds and doing so with courage, humility, and love. He does not just live a good life but has found deep peace and understanding within himself.
I had goosebumps speaking with Col. I hope you enjoy his story.
To learn more about Col head to his website: https://www.8keys.com.au/
playlist_add
Jun 3, 2020
Shanna Whan- Sober In the Country
Shanna Whan's raw, brutal honesty about her alcoholism, is testament to the courage and strong desire she has to help others suffering from addiction in our country. Shanna explains Sober in the Country below in her own words.
I hope you enjoy Shanna's story.
Sober in the Country (SITC) is a national charity with a focus on positively impacting and shifting the bush alcohol culture through grassroots conversations among mates that it's “OK2SAYNO” to a drink. Charity founder and CEO Shanna Whan has worked relentlessly in this space since early 2015 with the sole aim of using her own lived-experience as a recovered alcoholic to drive overdue change, awareness, and support for others. Specifically she addresses the rural demographic (like her) that works to feed and clothe the rest of the nation but often does so minus adequate support during times of need. When Shanna's episode of Australian Story went to air in late 2019 in the same week that SITC transitioned from 'solo volunteer'…
playlist_add
Jun 3, 2020
Sarah Foster- Struggle, Sacrifice & Triumph.
"Run Forrest Run". That is the most memorable line for me from Forrest Gump (apart from 'Life is like a box of chocolates'). Forrest is sitting on a park bench as an adult telling a very bored woman - 'You wouldn't believe me if I told you I could run like the wind blows. From that day on, if I was going somewhere I was running'.
Why am I telling you this? Well it reminds me so much of Sarah Foster. Not that Sarah has ever been in callipers and is actually a very smart woman - unlike Forrest who 'may not be a smart man but knows what love is'.
But, Sarah found herself running and forgot to stop! Sarah lives on a remote cattle property in the Gulf of Australia and amongst many things, is an ultra marathon runner. She recently won the Delirious W.E.S.T, a leisurely 350km run in Western Australia.
In our interview, Sarah shares her story of struggle, sacrifice and triumph with a little bit of love thrown in!
playlist_add
Jun 3, 2020
David Hanlon- The Right Mind
During my interview with David Hanlon from The Right Mind, I was reminded how important our own personal growth is to live happy, contented lives.
playlist_add
May 30, 2020
Anthony Hart- Mental Health/ Suicide Awareness
What makes a person so desperate in this life they no longer want to be here?
What happens if that person survives an attempt on their life?
Is it possible for them to recover and have a full, happy and positive future?
I recently caught up with Anthony Hart who has the answers to these questions and more.
Anthony's story is one of hope and courage, dignity and strength and of course love.
I hope you enjoy listening to Anthony.
If you're struggling, reach out before its too late.
playlist_add
May 30, 2020
Joy Leach- Domestic Violence
Hannah Baxter and her children’s passing has affected all of us deeply.
That something so terrible can happen in our beautiful country, in our quiet suburban streets is something that I’m sure we are all having trouble coming to terms with.
What though, of those who have walked before Hannah, in similar circumstances, but have survived the horror?
Joy Leach (not her real name), is one such woman. Joy sat with me towards the end of last year to tell her courageous story of domestic violence. We thought it timely to share this with you now.
Joy told me, that hearing Hannah’s family speak, felt a little like they could have been speaking for her, for her life, not so very long ago. She wonders how many other women out there are like Hannah and herself, who hope and pray things will get better.
Thankfully Joy has lived to see a kind world. An anonymous person, recognising the effect this tragedy would have on Joy, sent her a beautiful bunch of flowers. The note simply read, ‘I…
playlist_add
May 30, 2020
Kate Everett - Do It For Dolly (Ep.1/2)
*Interview May 2019*
In this episode we speak with Kate who, along with her husband Tick, are the driving force behind Dolly's Dream.
Kate is a truly remarkable woman who has turned a mother’s loss into a positive movement for change.
Dolly’s Dream was instigated to honour their daughter Dolly and to continue a nationwide conversation about the devastating effects of bullying.
Dolly’s legacy, through her parents and sister Meg, is to create a happier life for our children.
By educating the devastating effects bullying has on our kids, Dolly’s Dream’s illustrates ways to empower individuals experiencing bullying and also aims to deter bullying in the first place.
Stay tuned for a more recent interview from Kate following the second annual "Dolly's Day"
playlist_add
May 30, 2020
Kate Everett- Do It For Dolly (Ep.2/2)
This interview was recorded after the second annual Dolly's Day.
The Everett family experienced the unimaginable in 2018 when their youngest daughter Dolly took her own life following an extended period of bullying and cyber-bullying.
Tick, Kate, and Meg work tirelessly to prevent other families from experiencing the same thing. When I last sat down with Kate Everett in February last year, the family had just arrived home after winning Australia’s Local Hero Award in Canberra for their initiative in creating Dolly’s Dream. They were also looking forward to their very first ‘Do it for Dolly Day’ with the intention of creating awareness and spreading kindness right across Australia.
Since then, Dolly’s Dream has gone from strength to strength and Tick, Kate and Meg remain stoic in their quest to create a kinder world in memory of their beautiful Dolly.
I hope you enjoy my interview with Kate today. I am so grateful for her taking the time to speak with me…
playlist_add
May 20, 2020
Life Journey TV- Demi Bettini
Demi Bettini is the most inspirational young women I know. As a 13 year old, Demi was told she had just months to live following a terminal cancer diagnosis. Demi is now 19 and lives her life in such joy that you can’t help but be infected by her zest for life. If we could all live with Demi’s attitude, the world would indeed be a wonderful place! Demi you are a rock star!
playlist_add